Understanding Aortic Aneurysms
OR Nurse 2012, July 2012Sudden dissection or rupture of an aortic aneurysm is a life-threatening medical emergency. This article describes thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms, their causes, and the perioperative nurse's role in surgical procedures for aortic aneurysms.
Understanding the Alphabet Soup of Mechanical Ventilation
Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing, July/August 2012Mechanical ventilation is one of the most frequently used interventions found in critical care units, and nurses need basic knowledge of the types of ventilators, ventilator settings, and alarms most frequently used. This article sorts out the "alphabet soup" concerning mechanical ventilation and focuses on invasive procedures.
Infection Control for Critically Ill Trauma Patients: A Systematic Approach to Prevention, Detection, and Provider Feedback
Critical Care Nursing Quarterly, July/September 2012An understanding of the predisposing factors, the epidemiology of disease, and guidelines to treat and to prevent hospital-acquired infections is necessary to incorporate infection control into the daily care of the critically ill trauma patient. Learn about a multidisciplinary approach to infection control in the critically ill trauma patient with a special focus on ventilator-associated pneumonia at a level 1 trauma and burn center.
How To Save A Life: A Suicide Prevention Protocol For Critical Care
Nursing2012 Critical Care, July 2012Suicide is ranked in the top five most frequently reported events to The Joint Commission (TJC) since 1995. Read how one critical care unit recognized the need for and successfully implemented a suicide prevention protocol.
Efficacy and Safety of Pharmacological Options for Rate Control in Atrial Fibrillation
AACN Advanced Critical Care, June 2012When atrial fibrillation (AF) is not controlled, the symptoms may be severe and interrupt a patient's activities of daily life. Health care providers must understand the role of pharmacological management strategies that can improve quality of life and care in patients with AF.